Catastrophe and Containment: A Critical Analysis of the US Response to the 2010 Earthquake in Haiti

Abstract

On Tuesday 12 January 2010, the earthquake that struck Haiti provided a telling window into the current humanitarian world order. The earthquake narrative and its visuals were gripping and dramatic. The destruction left more than a million homeless, and caused significant damage to the capital Port-au-Prince, as well as other cities and settlements. The Haitian national palace, government ministries and police stations collapsed with major loss of life. Suffering was immediate, everywhere, and was broadcast to the world instantly. Banks, churches, food stores, hospitals, hotels, schools, and communications capabilities were destroyed, and whoever had the means attempted to flee the city.